Näcken, the Fiddler in the Waterfall
In Scandinavian lore, a water spirit played the fiddle so beautifully by waterfalls that listeners danced themselves into the river.
What was reported
Näcken in Sweden, or Nøkken in Norway, is a water spirit of Scandinavian folklore, often pictured as a young man sitting in a stream or beneath a waterfall, playing an enchanting tune on the violin. Those who heard it couldn't stop dancing, and might be drawn into the water.
He could also teach the fiddle to anyone who brought him an offering. Fiddlers of unusual skill were said to have learned from him.
Explanations offered
Like the kelpie, Näcken warned of the dangers of lakes, rivers and waterfalls, especially for children. The rush of falling water can sound like music, and the figure inspired painters such as Ernst Josephson and many folk songs.
- When
- Told for centuries
- Where
- Rivers and lakes of Sweden
- Witnesses
- Scandinavian country people
- Status
- Legend
Famous cases are real, widely reported events. Each file sets out what witnesses said and the explanations that have been offered, without taking a side.